Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter

Mechanical failure—an inconvenience any
time it occurs—can be deadly in the winter.
Preventive maintenance is a must. Besides,
even if your winters are normally mild, a
well maintained vehicle is more enjoyable to
drive, will last longer, and should command
a higher resale price.

Here’s advice from the non-profit
National Institute for Automotive Service
Excellence (www.ase.com)
Some of the following tips can be performed
by any do-it-yourselfer; others require the
skilled hands of an auto technician.

Fuel—Put a bottle of fuel de-icer
in your tank once a month to help keep
moisture from freezing in the fuel line.
Note that a gas tank that is kept filled
helps keep moisture from forming.

Oil—Change your oil and oil filter
as specified in your manual—more often
(every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is
mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent
short trips.

Cooling System—The cooling system
should be flushed and refilled as
recommended. The level, condition, and
concentration of the coolant should be
checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of
anti-freeze and water is usually
recommended.) Never remove the radiator cap
until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The
tightness and condition of drive belts,
clamps, and hoses should be checked by a
pro.

Windshield Wipers—Replace old
blades. If your climate is harsh, purchase
rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice
build-up. Stock up on windshield washer
solvent—you’ll be surprised how much you
use. Carry an ice-scraper.

Heater/Defroster—The heater and
defroster must be in good working condition
for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

Battery—The only accurate way to
detect a weak battery is with professional
equipment. Routine care: Scrape away
corrosion from posts and cable connections;
clean all surfaces; re-tighten all
connections. Avoid contact with corrosive
deposits and battery acid. Wear eye
protection and rubber gloves. If battery
caps are removable, check fluid level
monthly. Note that removal of cables can
cause damage or loss of data/codes on some
newer vehicles. Check your manual.

Lights—Inspect all lights and
bulbs; replace burned out bulbs;
periodically clean road grime from all
lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a
dry rag.

Exhaust System—Your vehicle should
be placed on a lift and the exhaust system
examined for leaks. The trunk and
floorboards should be inspected for small
holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

Tires—Worn tires will be of little
use in winter weather. Examine tires for
remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and
cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and
nicks. Check the tire pressure once a month.
Let the tires “cool down” before checking
the pressure. Rotate as recommended. Don’t
forget your spare, and be sure the jack is
in good condition.

Emergencies—Carry gloves, boots,
blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or
kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and
a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks
in your glove box.

The National Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972
as a non-profit, independent organization
dedicated to improving the quality of
automotive service and repair through the
voluntary testing and certification of
automotive technicians. ASE-certified
technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder
insignia and carry credentials listing their
exact area(s) of certification. Their
employers often display the blue and white
ASE sign. Visit
www.ase.com for additional car care tips.